The Marion Public Library is excited to announce a new service for Marion County residents – a Seed Library! A seed library is an initiative that aims to strengthen our local gardening community and promote biodiversity, sustainability, and local food security by providing free access to seeds for anyone interested in growing their own garden. 

Starting September 8, 2025, any Marion County resident ages 13 and older may check out up to 10 seed packets from the Seed Library each month. No prior gardening experience needed! With each type of seed that is checked out, you will also receive planting and care information for that seed type. The educational resources provided have been written by Tim Barnes of the Marion OSU Extension Office. 

The MPL seed library operates on the honor system to help maintain a well-stocked collection of pure, healthy, and viable seeds for everyone to enjoy. All seeds have been donated to the Marion Public Library in new, unopened packets by the following generous donors: High Mowing Organic Seeds, Miller’s Country Garden, Rural King Marion (Livingston Seeds), Scioto Garden’s Nursery, Sow Right Seeds, and TomatoFest. Depending on the quantity of seeds received, some seeds have been divided and repackaged by MPL staff in order to benefit more seed library participants. A huge thank you to all of our contributors and donors for helping get the MPL Seed Library started!

To check out seeds from the Seed Library, fill out a form at the Information Services Desk on the second floor of the library. 

Seeds from the MPL Seed Library are provided for personal and non-commercial use only. Please do not sell or exchange these seeds for compensation.

Seed Varieties Available

Inventory levels vary; please ask at the Information Services Desk for current inventory availability.